Surgical shaft assemblies with flexible interfaces

ABSTRACT

A slip ring assembly is used with a surgical shaft assembly. The slip ring assembly includes a slip ring, a first conductor mounted on the slip ring, a commutator rotatable relative to the slip ring, and a second conductor mounted on the commutator. The slip ring assembly further includes a flexible member disposed between the slip ring and the commutator. The flexible member comprises a body and flexible protrusions extending from the body, wherein the flexible protrusions are elastically deformed against the first slip ring.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments and, in variouscircumstances, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments and staplecartridges therefor that are designed to staple and cut tissue.

BACKGROUND

In a motorized surgical stapling and cutting instrument it may be usefulto measure the position and velocity of a cutting member in an initialpredetermined time or displacement to control speed. Measurement ofposition or velocity over an initial predetermined time or displacementmay be useful to evaluate tissue thickness and to adjust the speed ofthe remaining stroke based on this comparison against a threshold.

While several devices have been made and used, it is believed that noone prior to the inventors has made or used the device described in theappended claims.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a slip ring assembly is used with a surgical shaftassembly. The slip ring assembly includes a first connector, a firstconductor mounted on the first connector, a second connector rotatablerelative to the first connector, and a second conductor mounted on thesecond connector, wherein the second conductor is in contact with thefirst conductor. An interface is positioned between the first connectorand the second connector, wherein the interface is configured to trapwater away from at least one of the first conductor and the secondconductor.

A surgical shaft assembly includes a proximal shaft portion thatincludes a proximal connector supported in the proximal shaft portionand first conductors mounted on the proximal connector. The shaftassembly also includes a distal shaft portion rotatable relative to theproximal shaft portion. The distal shaft portion includes a distalconnector supported in the distal shaft portion, second conductorsmounted on the distal connector, wherein the second conductors arespaced apart laterally and radially from one another, and a gasketdisposed between the proximal connector and the distal connector,wherein the gasket is configured to resist water flow toward at leastone of the first conductors and the second conductors.

In one aspect, a slip ring assembly is used with a surgical shaftassembly. The slip ring assembly includes a slip ring, a first conductormounted on the slip ring, a commutator rotatable relative to the slipring, and a second conductor mounted on the commutator. The slip ringassembly also includes a flexible member disposed between the slip ringand the commutator, wherein the flexible member includes a body andflexible protrusions extending from the body, wherein the flexibleprotrusions are elastically deformed against the first slip ring.

FIGURES

The novel features of the various aspects described herein are set forthwith particularity in the appended claims. The various aspects, however,both as to organization and methods of operation may be betterunderstood by reference to the following description, taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings as follows:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical instrument that has a shaftassembly and an end effector in accordance with one or more aspects ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly view of a portion of the surgicalinstrument of FIG. 1 according to one aspect of this disclosure.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an end effector of the surgical instrumentof FIG. 1 according to one aspect of this disclosure.

FIG. 4 is perspective view of an RF cartridge and an elongate channeladapted for use with the RF cartridge according to one aspect of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 5 is an exploded assembly view of portions of the interchangeableshaft assembly of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1 according to oneaspect of this disclosure.

FIG. 6 is another exploded assembly view of portions of theinterchangeable shaft assembly of FIG. 1 according to one aspect of thisdisclosure.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeableshaft assembly of FIG. 1 according to one aspect of this disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of the shaft assembly of FIG.1 with the switch drum omitted for clarity.

FIG. 9 is another perspective view of the portion of the interchangeableshaft assembly of FIG. 1 with the switch drum mounted thereon.

FIG. 10 is a planar view of a slip ring of a slip ring assemblyaccording to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a planar view of a distal connector of a slip ring assemblyaccording to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a planar view of a flexible member assembled with a distalconnector according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a planar view of a flexible member assembled with a distalconnector according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a slip ring assembly according toone aspect of the present disclosure.

DESCRIPTION

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. PatentApplications that were filed on even date herewith and which are eachherein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled ARTICULATION STATEDETECTION MECHANISMS; Attorney Docket No. END8176USNP/170049;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL SHAFTASSEMBLIES WITH INCREASED CONTACT PRESSURE; Attorney Docket No.END8177USNP/170050;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL SHAFTASSEMBLIES WITH SLIP RING ASSEMBLIES FORMING CAPACITIVE CHANNELS;Attorney Docket No. END8178USNP/170051;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled METHOD OF COATING SLIPRINGS; Attorney Docket No. END8179USNP/170052M; and

U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL SHAFTASSEMBLIES WITH WATERTIGHT HOUSINGS; Attorney Docket No.END8180USNP/170053.

Certain aspects are shown and described to provide an understanding ofthe structure, function, manufacture, and use of the disclosed devicesand methods. Features shown or described in one example may be combinedwith features of other examples and modifications and variations arewithin the scope of this disclosure.

The terms “proximal” and “distal” are relative to a clinicianmanipulating the handle of the surgical instrument where “proximal”refers to the portion closer to the clinician and “distal” refers to theportion located further from the clinician. For expediency, spatialterms “vertical,” “horizontal,” “up,” and “down” used with respect tothe drawings are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute, becausesurgical instruments can used in many orientations and positions.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and“comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and“having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and“including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains”and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a surgicalsystem, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or“contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements,but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements.Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,”“has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those oneor more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one ormore features.

Example devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic andminimally invasive surgical procedures. Such devices and methods,however, can be used in other surgical procedures and applicationsincluding open surgical procedures, for example. The surgicalinstruments can be inserted into a through a natural orifice or throughan incision or puncture hole formed in tissue. The working portions orend effector portions of the instruments can be inserted directly intothe body or through an access device that has a working channel throughwhich the end effector and elongated shaft of the surgical instrumentcan be advanced.

FIGS. 1-9 depict a motor-driven surgical instrument 10 for cutting andfastening that may or may not be reused. In the illustrated examples,the surgical instrument 10 includes a housing 12 that comprises a handleassembly 14 that is configured to be grasped, manipulated, and actuatedby the clinician. The housing 12 is configured for operable attachmentto an interchangeable shaft assembly 200 that has an end effector 300operably coupled thereto that is configured to perform one or moresurgical tasks or procedures. In accordance with the present disclosure,various forms of interchangeable shaft assemblies may be effectivelyemployed in connection with robotically controlled surgical systems. Theterm “housing” may encompass a housing or similar portion of a roboticsystem that houses or otherwise operably supports at least one drivesystem configured to generate and apply at least one control motion thatcould be used to actuate interchangeable shaft assemblies. The term“frame” may refer to a portion of a handheld surgical instrument. Theterm “frame” also may represent a portion of a robotically controlledsurgical instrument and/or a portion of the robotic system that may beused to operably control a surgical instrument. Interchangeable shaftassemblies may be employed with various robotic systems, instruments,components, and methods disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,072,535, entitledSURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENTARRANGEMENTS, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical instrument 10 that has aninterchangeable shaft assembly 200 operably coupled thereto according toone aspect of this disclosure. The housing 12 includes an end effector300 that comprises a surgical cutting and fastening device configured tooperably support a surgical staple cartridge 304 therein. The housing 12may be configured for use in connection with interchangeable shaftassemblies that include end effectors that are adapted to supportdifferent sizes and types of staple cartridges, have different shaftlengths, sizes, and types. The housing 12 may be employed with a varietyof interchangeable shaft assemblies, including assemblies configured toapply other motions and forms of energy such as, radio frequency (RF)energy, ultrasonic energy, and/or motion to end effector arrangementsadapted for use in connection with various surgical applications andprocedures. The end effectors, shaft assemblies, handles, surgicalinstruments, and/or surgical instrument systems can utilize any suitablefastener, or fasteners, to fasten tissue. For instance, a fastenercartridge comprising a plurality of fasteners removably stored thereincan be removably inserted into and/or attached to the end effector of ashaft assembly.

The handle assembly 14 may comprise a pair of interconnectable handlehousing segments 16, 18 interconnected by screws, snap features,adhesive, etc. The handle housing segments 16, 18 cooperate to form apistol grip portion 19 that can be gripped and manipulated by theclinician. The handle assembly 14 operably supports a plurality of drivesystems configured to generate and apply control motions tocorresponding portions of the interchangeable shaft assembly that isoperably attached thereto.

FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly view of a portion of the surgicalinstrument 10 of FIG. 1 according to one aspect of this disclosure. Thehandle assembly 14 may include a frame 20 that operably supports aplurality of drive systems. The frame 20 can operably support a “first”or closure drive system 30, which can apply closing and opening motionsto the interchangeable shaft assembly 200. The closure drive system 30may include an actuator such as a closure trigger 32 pivotally supportedby the frame 20. The closure trigger 32 is pivotally coupled to thehandle assembly 14 by a pivot pin 33 to enable the closure trigger 32 tobe manipulated by a clinician. When the clinician grips the pistol gripportion 19 of the handle assembly 14, the closure trigger 32 can pivotfrom a starting or “unactuated” position to an “actuated” position andmore particularly to a fully compressed or fully actuated position.

The handle assembly 14 and the frame 20 may operably support a firingdrive system 80 configured to apply firing motions to correspondingportions of the interchangeable shaft assembly attached thereto. Thefiring drive system 80 may employ an electric motor 82 located in thepistol grip portion 19 of the handle assembly 14. The electric motor 82may be a DC brushed motor having a maximum rotational speed ofapproximately 25,000 RPM, for example. In other arrangements, the motormay include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, astepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The electric motor82 may be powered by a power source 90 that may comprise a removablepower pack 92. The removable power pack 92 may comprise a proximalhousing portion 94 configured to attach to a distal housing portion 96.The proximal housing portion 94 and the distal housing portion 96 areconfigured to operably support a plurality of batteries 98 therein.Batteries 98 may each comprise, for example, a Lithium Ion (LI) or othersuitable battery. The distal housing portion 96 is configured forremovable operable attachment to a control circuit board 100, which isoperably coupled to the electric motor 82. Several batteries 98connected in series may power the surgical instrument 10. The powersource 90 may be replaceable and/or rechargeable.

The electric motor 82 can include a rotatable shaft (not shown) thatoperably interfaces with a gear reducer assembly 84 mounted in meshingengagement with a with a set, or rack, of drive teeth 122 on alongitudinally movable drive member 120. The longitudinally movabledrive member 120 has a rack of drive teeth 122 formed thereon formeshing engagement with a corresponding drive gear 86 of the gearreducer assembly 84.

In use, a voltage polarity provided by the power source 90 can operatethe electric motor 82 in a clockwise direction wherein the voltagepolarity applied to the electric motor by the battery can be reversed inorder to operate the electric motor 82 in a counter-clockwise direction.When the electric motor 82 is rotated in one direction, thelongitudinally movable drive member 120 will be axially driven in thedistal direction “DD.” When the electric motor 82 is driven in theopposite rotary direction, the longitudinally movable drive member 120will be axially driven in a proximal direction “PD.” The handle assembly14 can include a switch that can be configured to reverse the polarityapplied to the electric motor 82 by the power source 90. The handleassembly 14 may include a sensor configured to detect the position ofthe longitudinally movable drive member 120 and/or the direction inwhich the longitudinally movable drive member 120 is being moved.

Actuation of the electric motor 82 can be controlled by a firing trigger130 that is pivotally supported on the handle assembly 14. The firingtrigger 130 may be pivoted between an unactuated position and anactuated position.

Turning back to FIG. 1, the interchangeable shaft assembly 200 includesan end effector 300 comprising an elongated channel 302 configured tooperably support a surgical staple cartridge 304 therein. The endeffector 300 may include an anvil 306 that is pivotally supportedrelative to the elongated channel 302. The interchangeable shaftassembly 200 may include an articulation joint 270. Construction andoperation of the end effector 300 and the articulation joint 270 are setforth in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541, entitledARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK, whichis herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. The interchangeableshaft assembly 200 may include a proximal housing or nozzle 201comprised of nozzle portions 202, 203. The interchangeable shaftassembly 200 may include a closure tube 260 extending along a shaft axisSA that can be utilized to close and/or open the anvil 306 of the endeffector 300.

Turning back to FIG. 1, the closure tube 260 is translated distally(direction “DD”) to close the anvil 306, for example, in response to theactuation of the closure trigger 32 in the manner described in theaforementioned reference U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0263541. The anvil 306 is opened by proximally translating theclosure tube 260. In the anvil-open position, the closure tube 260 ismoved to its proximal position.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of one aspect of an end effector 300 of thesurgical instrument 10 of FIG. 1 in accordance with one or more aspectsof the present disclosure. The end effector 300 may include the anvil306 and the surgical staple cartridge 304. In this non-limiting example,the anvil 306 is coupled to an elongated channel 302. For example,apertures 199 can be defined in the elongated channel 302 which canreceive pins 152 extending from the anvil 306 and allow the anvil 306 topivot from an open position to a closed position relative to theelongated channel 302 and surgical staple cartridge 304. A firing bar172 is configured to longitudinally translate into the end effector 300.The firing bar 172 may be constructed from one solid section, or invarious examples, may include a laminate material comprising, forexample, a stack of steel plates. The firing bar 172 comprises an E-beam178 and a cutting edge 182 at a distal end thereof. In various aspects,the E-beam may be referred to as an I-beam. A distally projecting end ofthe firing bar 172 can be attached to the E-beam 178 element in anysuitable manner and can, among other things, assist in spacing the anvil306 from a surgical staple cartridge 304 positioned in the elongatedchannel 302 when the anvil 306 is in a closed position. The E-beam 178also can include a sharpened cutting edge 182 that can be used to severtissue as the E-beam 178 is advanced distally by the firing bar 172. Inoperation, the E-beam 178 also can actuate, or fire, the surgical staplecartridge 304. The surgical staple cartridge 304 can include a moldedcartridge body 194 that holds a plurality of staples 191 resting uponstaple drivers 192 within respective upwardly open staple cavities 195.A wedge sled 190 is driven distally by the E-beam 178, sliding upon acartridge tray 196 that holds together the various components of thesurgical staple cartridge 304. The wedge sled 190 upwardly cams thestaple drivers 192 to force out the staples 191 into deforming contactwith the anvil 306 while the cutting edge 182 of the E-beam 178 seversclamped tissue.

The E-beam 178 can include upper pins 180 that engage the anvil 306during firing. The E-beam 178 can further include middle pins 184 and abottom foot 186 that can engage various portions of the cartridge body194, cartridge tray 196, and elongated channel 302. When a surgicalstaple cartridge 304 is positioned within the elongated channel 302, aslot 193 defined in the cartridge body 194 can be aligned with alongitudinal slot 197 defined in the cartridge tray 196 and a slot 189defined in the elongated channel 302. In use, the E-beam 178 can slidethrough the aligned longitudinal slots 193, 197, and 189 wherein, asindicated in FIG. 3, the bottom foot 186 of the E-beam 178 can engage agroove running along the bottom surface of elongated channel 302 alongthe length of slot 189, the middle pins 184 can engage the top surfacesof cartridge tray 196 along the length of longitudinal slot 197, and theupper pins 180 can engage the anvil 306. In such circumstances, theE-beam 178 can space, or limit the relative movement between, the anvil306 and the surgical staple cartridge 304 as the firing bar 172 is moveddistally to fire the staples from the surgical staple cartridge 304and/or incise the tissue captured between the anvil 306 and the surgicalstaple cartridge 304. Thereafter, the firing bar 172 and the E-beam 178can be retracted proximally allowing the anvil 306 to be opened torelease the two stapled and severed tissue portions.

Referring to FIG. 4, in at least one arrangement, an interchangeableshaft assembly can be used in connection with an RF cartridge 1700 aswell as a surgical staple/fastener cartridge.

The RF surgical cartridge 1700 includes a cartridge body 1710 that issized and shaped to be removably received and supported in the elongatechannel 1602. For example, the cartridge body 1710 may be configured tobe removable retained in snap engagement with the elongate channel 1602.In at least one aspect, the cartridge body 1710 includes a centrallydisposed elongate slot 1712 that extends longitudinally through thecartridge body to accommodate longitudinal travel of a knifetherethrough.

The cartridge body 1710 is formed with a centrally disposed raisedelectrode pad 1720. The elongate slot 1712 extends through the center ofthe electrode pad 1720 and serves to divide the pad 1720 into a left padsegment 1720L and a right pad segment 1720R. A right flexible circuitassembly 1730R is attached to the right pad segment 1720R and a leftflexible circuit assembly 1730L is attached to the left pad segment1720L. In at least one arrangement for example, the right flexiblecircuit 1730R comprises a plurality of wires 1732R that may include, forexample, wider wires/conductors for RF purposes and thinner wires forconventional stapling purposes that are supported or attached orembedded into a right insulator sheath/member 1734R that is attached tothe right pad 1720R. In addition, the right flexible circuit assembly1730R includes a “phase one”, proximal right electrode 1736R and a“phase two” distal right electrode 1738R. Likewise, the left flexiblecircuit assembly 1730L comprises a plurality of wires 1732L that mayinclude, for example, wider wires/conductors for RF purposes and thinnerwires for conventional stapling purposes that are supported or attachedor embedded into a left insulator sheath/member 1734L that is attachedto the left pad 1720L. In addition, the left flexible circuit assembly1730L includes a “phase one”, proximal left electrode 1736L and a “phasetwo” distal left electrode 1738L. The left and right wires 1732L, 1732Rare attached to a distal micro-chip 1740 mounted to the distal endportion of the cartridge body 1710.

The elongate channel 1602 includes a channel circuit 1670 that issupported in a recess 1621 that extends from the proximal end of theelongate channel 1602 to a distal location 1623 in the elongate channelbottom portion 1620. The channel circuit 1670 includes a proximalcontact portion 1672 that contacts a distal contact portion 1169 of aflexible shaft circuit strip for electrical contact therewith. A distalend 1674 of the channel circuit 1670 is received within a correspondingwall recess 1625 formed in one of the channel walls 1622 and is foldedover and attached to an upper edge 1627 of the channel wall 1622. Aserial of corresponding exposed contacts 1676 are provided in the distalend 1674 of the channel circuit 1670. An end of a flexible cartridgecircuit 1750 is attached to the distal micro-chip 1740 and is affixed tothe distal end portion of the cartridge body 1710. Another end is foldedover the edge of the cartridge deck surface 1711 and includes exposedcontacts configured to make electrical contact with the exposed contacts1676 of the channel circuit 1670. Thus, when the RF cartridge 1700 isinstalled in the elongate channel 1602, the electrodes as well as thedistal micro-chip 1740 are powered and communicate with an onboardcircuit board through contact between the flexible cartridge circuit1750, the flexible channel circuit 1670, a flexible shaft circuit andslip ring assembly.

FIG. 5 is another exploded assembly view of portions of theinterchangeable shaft assembly 200 according to one aspect of thisdisclosure. The interchangeable shaft assembly 200 includes a firingmember 220 that is supported for axial travel within a shaft spine 210.The firing member 220 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 222that is configured for attachment to a distal portion or bar 280. Theintermediate firing shaft portion 222 may include a longitudinal slot223 in the distal end thereof which can be configured to receive a tab284 on the proximal end 282 of the distal bar 280. The longitudinal slot223 and the proximal end 282 can be sized and configured to permitrelative movement therebetween and can comprise a slip joint 286. Theslip joint 286 can permit the intermediate firing shaft portion 222 ofthe firing member 220 to be moved to articulate the end effector 300without moving, or at least substantially moving, the bar 280. Once theend effector 300 has been suitably oriented, the intermediate firingshaft portion 222 can be advanced distally until a proximal sidewall ofthe longitudinal slot 223 comes into contact with the tab 284 in orderto advance the distal bar 280. Advancement of the distal bar 280 causesthe E-beam 178 to be advanced distally to fire the staple cartridgepositioned within the channel 302.

Further to the above, the shaft assembly 200 includes a clutch assembly400 which can be configured to selectively and releasably couple thearticulation driver 230 to the firing member 220. In one form, theclutch assembly 400 includes a lock collar, or sleeve 402, positionedaround the firing member 220 wherein the lock sleeve 402 can be rotatedbetween an engaged position in which the lock sleeve 402 couples thearticulation drive 230 to the firing member 220 and a disengagedposition in which the articulation drive 230 is not operably coupled tothe firing member 220. When lock sleeve 402 is in its engaged position,distal movement of the firing member 220 can move the articulation drive230 distally and, correspondingly, proximal movement of the firingmember 220 can move the articulation drive 230 proximally. When locksleeve 402 is in its disengaged position, movement of the firing member220 is not transmitted to the articulation drive 230 and, as a result,the firing member 220 can move independently of the articulation drive230.

The lock sleeve 402 can comprise a cylindrical, or an at leastsubstantially cylindrical, body including a longitudinal aperture 403defined therein configured to receive the firing member 220. The locksleeve 402 can comprise diametrically-opposed, inwardly-facing lockprotrusions 404 and an outwardly-facing lock member 406. The lockprotrusions 404 can be configured to be selectively engaged with thefiring member 220. More particularly, when the lock sleeve 402 is in itsengaged position, the lock protrusions 404 are positioned within a drivenotch 224 defined in the firing member 220 such that a distal pushingforce and/or a proximal pulling force can be transmitted from the firingmember 220 to the lock sleeve 402. When the lock sleeve 402 is in itsengaged position, the second lock member 406 is received within a drivenotch 232 defined in the articulation driver 230 such that the distalpushing force and/or the proximal pulling force applied to the locksleeve 402 can be transmitted to the articulation driver 230. In effect,the firing member 220, the lock sleeve 402, and the articulation driver230 will move together when the lock sleeve 402 is in its engagedposition. On the other hand, when the lock sleeve 402 is in itsdisengaged position, the lock protrusions 404 may not be positionedwithin the drive notch 224 of the firing member 220 and, as a result, adistal pushing force and/or a proximal pulling force may not betransmitted from the firing member 220 to the lock sleeve 402.Correspondingly, the distal pushing force and/or the proximal pullingforce may not be transmitted to the articulation driver 230. In suchcircumstances, the firing member 220 can be slid proximally and/ordistally relative to the lock sleeve 402 and the proximal articulationdriver 230.

The shaft assembly 200 further includes a switch drum 500 that isrotatably received on the closure tube 260. The switch drum 500comprises a hollow shaft segment 502 that has a shaft boss 504 formedthereon for receive an outwardly protruding actuation pin 410 therein.In various circumstances, the actuation pin 410 extends through a slot267 into a longitudinal slot 408 provided in the lock sleeve 402 tofacilitate axial movement of the lock sleeve 402 when it is engaged withthe articulation driver 230. A rotary torsion spring 420 is configuredto engage the boss 504 on the switch drum 500 and a portion of thenozzle housing 203 as shown in FIG. 5 to apply a biasing force to theswitch drum 500. The switch drum 500 can further comprise at leastpartially circumferential openings 506 defined therein which, referringto FIGS. 5 and 6, can be configured to receive circumferential mountsextending from the nozzle halves 202, 203 and permit relative rotation,but not translation, between the switch drum 500 and the proximal nozzle201. The mounts also extend through openings 266 in the closure tube 260to be seated in recesses 211 in the shaft spine 210. However, rotationof the nozzle 201 to a point where the mounts reach the end of theirrespective openings 506 in the switch drum 500 will result in rotationof the switch drum 500 about the shaft axis SA-SA. Rotation of theswitch drum 500 will ultimately result in the rotation of the actuationpin 410 and the lock sleeve 402 between its engaged and disengagedpositions. Thus, in essence, the nozzle 201 may be employed to operablyengage and disengage the articulation drive system with the firing drivesystem in the various manners described in further detail in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/803,086.

The shaft assembly 200 can comprise a slip ring assembly 600 which canbe configured to conduct electrical power to and/or from the endeffector 300 and/or communicate signals to and/or from the end effector300, for example. The slip ring assembly 600 can comprise a proximalconnector flange 604 mounted to a chassis flange 242 extending from thechassis 240 and a distal connector flange 601 positioned within a slotdefined in the nozzle halves 202, 203. The proximal connector flange 604can comprise a first face and the distal connector flange 601 cancomprise a second face which is positioned adjacent to and movablerelative to the first face. The distal connector flange 601 can rotaterelative to the proximal connector flange 604 about the shaft axisSA-SA. The proximal connector flange 604 can comprise a plurality ofconcentric, or at least substantially concentric, conductors 602 definedin the first face thereof. A connector 607 can be mounted on theproximal side of the connector flange 601 and may have a plurality ofcontacts, wherein each contact corresponds to and is in electricalcontact with one of the conductors 602. Such an arrangement permitsrelative rotation between the proximal connector flange 604 and thedistal connector flange 601 while maintaining electrical contacttherebetween. The proximal connector flange 604 can include anelectrical connector 606 which can place the conductors 602 in signalcommunication with a circuit board mounted to the shaft chassis 240, forexample. In at least one instance, a wiring harness comprising aplurality of conductors can extend between the electrical connector 606and the circuit board. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,067,entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on Mar.13, 2013, is incorporated by reference in its entirety. U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/800,025, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUETHICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on Mar. 13, 2013, is incorporated byreference in its entirety. Further details regarding slip ring assembly600 may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086.

The shaft assembly 200 can include a proximal portion which is fixablymounted to the handle assembly 14 and a distal portion which isrotatable about a longitudinal axis. The rotatable distal shaft portioncan be rotated relative to the proximal portion about the slip ringassembly 600. The distal connector flange 601 of the slip ring assembly600 can be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion.Moreover, further to the above, the switch drum 500 can also bepositioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. When the rotatabledistal shaft portion is rotated, the distal connector flange 601 and theswitch drum 500 can be rotated synchronously with one another. Inaddition, the switch drum 500 can be rotated between a first positionand a second position relative to the distal connector flange 601. Whenthe switch drum 500 is in its first position, the articulation drivesystem may be operably disengaged from the firing drive system and,thus, the operation of the firing drive system may not articulate theend effector 300 of the shaft assembly 200. When the switch drum 500 isin its second position, the articulation drive system may be operablyengaged with the firing drive system and, thus, the operation of thefiring drive system may articulate the end effector 300 of the shaftassembly 200. When the switch drum 500 is moved between its firstposition and its second position, the switch drum 500 is moved relativeto distal connector flange 601.

In various examples, the shaft assembly 200 can comprise at least onesensor configured to detect the position of the switch drum 500. Thedistal connector flange 601 can comprise a Hall effect sensor 605, forexample, and the switch drum 500 can comprise a magnetic element, suchas permanent magnet 505, for example. The Hall effect sensor 605 can beconfigured to detect the position of the permanent magnet 505. When theswitch drum 500 is rotated between its first position and its secondposition, the permanent magnet 505 can move relative to the Hall effectsensor 605. In various examples, Hall effect sensor 605 can detectchanges in a magnetic field created when the permanent magnet 505 ismoved. The Hall effect sensor 605 can be in signal communication with acontrol circuit, for example. Based on the signal from the Hall effectsensor 605, a microcontroller on the control circuit can determinewhether the articulation drive system is engaged with or disengaged fromthe firing drive system.

A surgical instrument may not be able to use a rotatable shaft assemblyeffectively by using general wires to communicate power and signalsbetween a fixed shaft portion and a rotatable shaft portion of the shaftassembly because the wires may get twisted or even damaged due to therepeated rotation of the shaft assembly. One way to overcome thisdeficiency may be to use a ring assembly instead of wires to communicatepower and signals to the rotatable shaft portion. For example, a firstflange with electrodes may be attached to the fixed shaft portion and asecond flange with electrodes may rotate relative to the electrodes ofthe first flange. A gap is necessarily formed between the first flangeand the second flange to permit the rotation of the second flangerelative to the first flange. In order to maintain an electricalconnection during the rotation of the rotatable shaft portion, theelectrodes of the first and second flanges may be exposed at aninterface therebetween. The gap may permit water and/or other bodyfluids ingress into the area between the first and second flanges wherethe electrode interface resides. Accordingly, the electrode interfacemay become exposed to water and other body fluids during surgery. Upontouching the exposed electrodes, the water and/or body fluids may causesignal noise or even loss of power/signals.

Aspects of the present disclosure improve slip ring assemblies insurgical instruments that that are exposed to water and/or body fluidsduring their operation. Aspects of the present disclosure may preventsignal noise and loss of power and signals by providing an insulativebarrier to prevent water or fluids from reaching the electrodes.

Referring to FIG. 10-14, a slip ring assembly 1400 is illustrated. Theslip ring assembly 1400 is similar in many respects to the slip ringassembly 600. For example, the slip ring assembly 1400 can be configuredto conduct electrical power to and/or from the surgical end effector 300and/or communicate signals to and/or from the surgical end effector 300,back to a circuit board, while facilitating rotational travel of adistal shaft portion of a shaft assembly relative to a proximal shaftportion of the shaft assembly. A shaft assembly 200 can be equipped withthe slip ring assembly 1400 in lieu of the slip ring assembly 600, forexample. In various examples a Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) connector canbe coupled to the slip ring assembly 1400 to transmit electrical signalsand/or power to the end effector 300.

The slip ring assembly 1400 can be incorporated into the shaft assembly200. For example, a proximal connector 1401 of the slip ring assembly1400 can be fixed or attached to a proximal shaft portion of the shaftassembly 200. In one arrangement, the proximal connector 1401 can bemounted to the chassis flange 242 (FIG. 8) in the proximal shaft portionof the shaft assembly 200.

A distal connector 1402 of the slip ring assembly 1400 can be fixed orattached to a distal shaft portion of the shaft assembly 200. In auser-controlled rotation of the shaft assembly 200, the distal shaftportion is rotated relative to the proximal shaft portion. The rotationof the distal shaft assembly causes the distal connector 1402 to berotated relative to the proximal connector 1401. In an assembledconfiguration, the slip ring assembly 1400 comprises a doughnut shape ora cylindrical shape that includes a central opening 1419 configured toreceive the closure tube 260.

The proximal connector 1401, as illustrated in FIG. 10, can be in theform of a slip ring that includes concentric and/or radially disposedconductors 1403 that are spaced apart from one another. The conductors1403 comprise annular or disk-shaped profiles that are concentric abouta longitudinal axis extending through the opening 1419. The conductors1403 in FIG. 10 have continuous or uninterrupted profiles. In otherexamples, one or more of the conductors 1403 may have an interruptedprofile. In various examples, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the conductors1403 are mounted on the proximal connector 1401

When the slip ring assembly 1400 is assembled, conductors 1404 of thedistal connector 1402 are configured to be in contact with opposingconductors 1403 of the proximal connector 1401. In certain arrangements,the contact is maintained, or at least substantially maintained, whilethe distal connector 1402 and the conductors 1404 are rotated relativeto the proximal connector 1401 and the conductors 1403.

In various examples, the conductors 1404 can be in the form ofresiliently biased pins, resiliently biased leaf springs, resilientlybiased lever arms with end contacts, and/or any other spring contacts aswill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. A conductor 1404 may include a silver graphite tip onthe end of a beryllium copper leaf spring or a metallic gold alloy wire,for example. In various examples, the conductors 1404 are in the form ofresiliently biased leaf springs.

The conductors 1404 are spaced apart. Increasing the distance betweenadjacent conductors 1404 reduces the likelihood of a body of waterconnecting them. The conductors 1404 can be grouped in two groups onopposite halves of the distal connector 1402. In some examples, asillustrated in FIG. 11, a group of conductors 1404 are radially andlaterally spaced apart from one another to increase the distance betweenadjacent conductors 1404. Said another way, a group of conductors 1404can be arranged on a distal connector 1402 in an arcuate pattern. Insome examples, the conductors 1404 that are spaced apart radially can bedisposed at an angle a defined with respect to a common point at thecenter of the distal connector 1402.

In certain arrangements, the angle a can be selected from a range ofabout 30° to about 90°, for example. In other instances, the angle a canbe selected from a range of about 40° to about 70°, for example. Inother instances, the angle a can be selected from a range of about 30°to about 90°, for example. In one example, the angle a can be about 50°.Other values for the angle between adjacent conductors 1404 arecontemplated by the present disclosure. In various arrangements,different adjacent conductors 1404 can be spaced apart radially atdifferent angles or the same angle.

Referring to FIG. 11, adjacent conductors 1404 in a row can be spacedapart by a distance (d1) defined between two ends of the adjacentconductors 1404. In some examples, the distance (d1) can be selectedfrom a range of about 0.025″ to about 0.200″. In some examples, thedistance (d1) can be selected from a range of about 0.050″ to about0.150″. In some examples, the distance (d1) can be about 0.075″. In someexamples, the distance (d1) can be about 0.100″.

Further to the above, the slip ring assembly 1400 further includes aflexible member 1410 disposed between the proximal connector 1401 andthe distal connector 1402. The flexible member 1410 defines an interfacebetween the proximal connector 1401 and the distal connector 1402 in theform of a gasket or a seal configured to resist water flow between theproximal connector 1401 and distal connector 1402. In some examples, theflexible member 1410 is configured to resist water flow toward theconductors 1403 and/or the conductors 1404.

Referring to FIG. 14, the flexible member 1410 includes a body portion1411 and flexible portions 1412 protruding from the body portion 1411.The body portion 1411 and/or flexible portions 1412 can be elasticallydeformed, flattened, and/or spread against the proximal connector 1401to resist water flow toward and/or trap water away from the conductors1403 and/or the conductors 1404.

Referring to FIG. 12, the flexible member 1410 is assembled with thedistal connector 1402. In some example, the flexible member 1410includes cutouts or openings 1414 configured to receive the conductors1403. In an assembled configuration of the slip ring assembly 1400, asillustrated in FIG. 14, the conductors 1403 of the proximal connector1401 are inserted through the openings 1414 of flexible member 1410 andare brought into contact with the conductors 1404 of the distalconnector 1402. In some examples, the flexible member 1410 iscompressed, or at least partially compressed, between the proximalconnector 1401 and the distal connector 1402 which causes the flexibleportions 1412 to be elastically deformed, flattened, and/or spreadagainst the proximal connector 1401.

A flexible portion 1412 can have a length that is substantially greaterthan a width of the flexible portion 1412. In some examples, a flexibleportion 1412 can have a height that is substantially less than a lengthof the flexible portion 1412. In other examples, however, the length,width and height of each flexible portion 1412 may vary.

In some examples, the flexible portions 1412 may form tread elementsthat define a treaded surface that is configured to trap water away fromthe conductors 1403 and/or the conductors 1404. In some examples, thetread pattern can be arranged in a tread pattern.

The spacing between adjacent flexible portions 1412 may vary. In someexamples, the spacing between adjacent flexible portions 1412 can besubstantially constant throughout a tread pattern comprising a number offlexible portions 1412 extending from the body portion 1411. In otherexamples, the spacing between adjacent flexible portions 1412 may varythroughout a tread pattern. In one example, the spacing between adjacentflexible portions 1412 may be substantially similar throughout a treadpattern.

In various examples, the cross-sectional shape of one or more flexibleportion 1412 may vary. In some examples, each flexible portion 1412 canbe associated with a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape. Inother examples, however, each flexible portion 1412 can have other typesof cross-sectional shapes, including, but not limited to: rounded,rectangular, polygonal, regular and irregular cross-sectional shapes, aswell as any other types of cross-sectional shapes. Certain treadpatterns defined by flexible portions 1412 can be arranged insubstantially nonlinear configurations.

Referring to FIG. 12, in various examples, the flexible portions 1412are arranged in a series of concentric and radially disposed ribs 1412a-1412 h that are separated by circular grooves or channels 1415. Theribs may form a corrugated outer surface of the body portion 1411 thatcan be positioned against the proximal connector 1401, as illustrated inFIG. 14. The ribs can be similarly shaped or comprise different shapes.The ribs can be closed concentric geometric figures such as, forexample, an outermost rib 1404 a and an innermost rib 1404 h.Alternatively, certain ribs may have profiles that are interrupted bycutouts or openings 1414 that are configured to receive the conductors1403.

In some examples, the outermost rib 1404 a and innermost rib 1404 h forminner and outer watertight barriers that prevent, or at least resist,ingress of water and/or other body fluids into the space between theproximal connector 1401 and the distal connector 1402. Furthermore, thegrooves or channels 1415 are configured to trap water that manages topass through the outermost rib 1404 a and/or the innermost rib 1404 h toretain such water away from the conductors 1403 and/or the conductors1404.

Referring to FIG. 13, a distal connector 1402′ is assembled with aflexible member 1412′. The distal connector 1402′ and the flexiblemember 1412′ are similar in many respects to the distal connector 1402and the flexible member 1412, respectively. For example, the distalconnector 1402′ includes conductors 1404′ that are similar in manyrespects to the conductors 1404. The conductors 1404′, however, arearranged onto the distal connector 1402′ in a different arrangement thanthe arrangement of the conductors 1404 onto the distal connector 1402.For example, a distal connector 1402′ includes a group of conductors1404′ that are laterally spaced apart but are radially aligned with oneanother. The conductors 1404′ can be grouped in two groups on oppositehalves of the distal connector 1402′. As illustrated in FIG. 13, a groupof the conductors 1404′ can be arranged in a row 1418. Adjacentconductors 1404′ in a row can be laterally spaced apart by a distance(d2). In some examples, the distance (d2) can be selected from a rangeof about 0.005″ to about 0.075″. In some examples, the distance (d2) canbe selected from a range of about 0.015″ to about 0.055″. In someexamples, the distance (d2) can be about 0.015″. In some examples, thedistance (d2) can be about 0.050″.

The flexible member 1412′ is also similar in many respects to theflexible member 1412. For example, the flexible member 1412′ includesribs 1404′a-1404′h that are similar in many respects to the ribs 1404a-1404 h of the flexible member 1412. The flexible member 1412′,however, includes a different cutout arrangement configured toaccommodate the conductors 1404′.

In various examples, the flexible members 1410, 1410′ are made, or atleast partially made, from an elastomeric material. In at least oneexample, the flexible members 1410, 1410′ are made, or at leastpartially made, from Polyurethane or silicone. The flexible members1410, 1410′ can be manufactured using any suitable manufacturingtechnique such as, for example, casting or injection molding.

Although various devices have been described herein in connection withcertain embodiments, modifications and variations to those embodimentsmay be implemented. Particular features, structures, or characteristicsmay be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus,the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated ordescribed in connection with one embodiment may be combined in whole orin part, with the features, structures or characteristics of one oremore other embodiments without limitation. Also, where materials aredisclosed for certain components, other materials may be used.Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component may bereplaced by multiple components, and multiple components may be replacedby a single component, to perform a given function or functions. Theforegoing description and following claims are intended to cover allsuch modification and variations.

The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after asingle use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In eithercase, however, a device can be reconditioned for reuse after at leastone use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the stepsincluding, but not limited to, the disassembly of the device, followedby cleaning or replacement of particular pieces of the device, andsubsequent reassembly of the device. In particular, a reconditioningfacility and/or surgical team can disassemble a device and, aftercleaning and/or replacing particular parts of the device, the device canbe reassembled for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety oftechniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use ofsuch techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all withinthe scope of the present application.

The devices disclosed herein may be processed before surgery. First, anew or used instrument may be obtained and, when necessary, cleaned. Theinstrument may then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, theinstrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plasticor TYVEK bag. The container and instrument may then be placed in a fieldof radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation,x-rays, and/or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria onthe instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument may thenbe stored in the sterile container. The sealed container may keep theinstrument sterile until it is opened in a medical facility. A devicemay also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art,including but not limited to beta radiation, gamma radiation, ethyleneoxide, plasma peroxide, and/or steam.

While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, thepresent invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope ofthe disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover anyvariations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its generalprinciples.

Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or inpart, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein isincorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materialsdo not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or otherdisclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to theextent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth hereinsupersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference.Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated byreference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions,statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only beincorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between thatincorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

Various aspects of the subject matter described herein are set out inthe following examples:

EXAMPLE 1

A slip ring assembly for use with a surgical shaft. The slip ringassembly comprises a first connector and a first conductor mounted onthe first connector. The slip ring assembly further comprises a secondconnector rotatable relative to the first connector, a second conductormounted on the second connector, wherein the second conductor is incontact with the first conductor, and an interface between the firstconnector and the second connector, wherein the interface is configuredto trap water away from at least one of the first conductor and thesecond conductor.

EXAMPLE 2

The slip ring assembly of Example 1, wherein the interface comprises abody portion that includes an opening to receive the second conductor.

EXAMPLE 3

The slip ring assembly of one or more of Example 1 through Example 2,wherein the interface comprises ribs protruding from the body portion.

EXAMPLE 4

The slip ring assembly of Example 3, wherein the ribs are concentric.

EXAMPLE 5

The slip ring assembly of one or more of Example 1 through Example 4,wherein the interface is flexible.

EXAMPLE 6

The slip ring assembly of one or more of Example 1 through Example 5,wherein the interface is comprised of an elastomeric material.

EXAMPLE 7

The slip ring assembly of one or more of Example 1 through Example 6,wherein the interface is fixed to the second connector.

EXAMPLE 8

The slip ring assembly of one or more of Example 1 through Example 7,wherein the interface is rotatable with the second connector relative tothe first connector.

EXAMPLE 9

A surgical shaft assembly comprising a proximal shaft portion and adistal shaft portion rotatable relative to the proximal shaft portion.The proximal shaft portion comprises a proximal connector supported inthe proximal shaft portion and first conductors mounted on the proximalconnector. The distal shaft portion comprises a distal connectorsupported in the distal shaft portion, second conductors mounted on thedistal connector, wherein the second conductors are spaced apartlaterally and radially from one another, and a gasket disposed betweenthe proximal connector and the distal connector, wherein the gasket isconfigured to resist water flow toward at least one of the firstconductors and the second conductors.

EXAMPLE 10

The surgical shaft assembly of Example 9, wherein the gasket comprisesopenings configured to receive the second conductors.

EXAMPLE 11

The surgical shaft assembly of one or more of Example 9 through Example10, wherein the gasket comprises tread elements protruding therefrom.

EXAMPLE 12

The surgical shaft assembly of Example 11, wherein the tread elementsare concentric.

EXAMPLE 13

The surgical shaft assembly of one or more of Example 9 through Example12, wherein the gasket is flexible.

EXAMPLE 14

The surgical shaft assembly of one or more of Example 9 through Example13, wherein the gasket is comprised of an elastomeric material.

EXAMPLE 15

The surgical shaft assembly of one or more of Example 9 through Example14, wherein the gasket is fixed to the distal connector.

EXAMPLE 16

The surgical shaft assembly of one or more of Example 9 through Example15, wherein the gasket is rotatable with the distal connector relativeto the proximal connector.

EXAMPLE 17

A slip ring assembly for use with a surgical shaft assembly. The slipring assembly comprises a slip ring, a first conductor mounted on theslip ring and a commutator rotatable relative to the slip ring. The slipring assembly further comprises a second conductor mounted to thecommutator and a flexible member disposed between the slip ring and thecommutator. The flexible member comprises a body portion and flexibleportions extending from the body portions, wherein the flexible portionsare elastically deformed against the slip ring.

EXAMPLE 18

The slip ring assembly of Example 17, wherein the body portionscomprises an opening configured to receive the second conductor.

EXAMPLE 19

The slip ring assembly of one or more of Example 17 through Example 18,wherein the flexible member is fixed to the commutator.

EXAMPLE 20

The slip ring assembly of one or more of Example 17 through Example 19,wherein the flexible member is rotatable with the commutator relative tothe slip ring.

1. A slip ring assembly for use with a surgical shaft assembly, the slipring assembly comprising: a first connector; a first conductor mountedon the first connector; a second connector rotatable relative to thefirst connector; a second conductor mounted on the second connector,wherein the second conductor is in contact with the first conductor; andan interface between the first connector and the second connector,wherein the interface comprises: an inner edge defining an aperturetherethrough; an outer edge; and a plurality of ribs defining an outergroove extending about the outer edge and an inner groove extendingabout the inner edge, wherein the outer groove and the inner groove areeach configured to trap water away from the first conductor and thesecond conductor.
 2. The slip ring assembly of claim 1, wherein theinterface comprises a body portion that includes an opening configuredto receive the second conductor.
 3. The slip ring assembly of claim 2,wherein the plurality of ribs protrude from the body portion.
 4. Theslip ring assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of ribs areconcentric.
 5. The slip ring assembly of claim 1, wherein the interfaceis flexible.
 6. The slip ring assembly of claim 1, wherein the interfaceis comprised of an elastomeric material.
 7. The slip ring assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the interface is fixed to the second connector.
 8. Theslip ring assembly of claim 7, wherein the interface is rotatable withthe second connector relative to the first connector.
 9. A surgicalshaft assembly, comprising: a proximal shaft portion, comprising: aproximal connector supported in the proximal shaft portion; and firstconductors mounted on the proximal connector; and a distal shaft portionrotatable relative to the proximal shaft portion, wherein the distalshaft portion comprises: a distal connector supported in the distalshaft portion; second conductors mounted on the distal connector,wherein the second conductors are spaced apart laterally and radiallyfrom one another; and a gasket disposed between the proximal connectorand the distal connector, wherein the gasket comprises: an inner edgedefining an aperture therethrough; an outer edge; and a plurality oftread elements defining an outer groove extending about the outer edgeand an inner groove extending about the inner edge, wherein the outergroove and the inner groove are each configured to resist water flowtoward the first conductors and the second conductors.
 10. The surgicalshaft assembly of claim 9, wherein the gasket comprises openingsconfigured to receive the second conductors.
 11. The surgical shaftassembly of claim 10, wherein the gasket comprises a body portion fromwhich the tread elements protrude.
 12. The surgical shaft assembly ofclaim 9, wherein the plurality of tread elements are concentric.
 13. Thesurgical shaft assembly of claim 9, wherein the gasket is flexible. 14.The surgical shaft assembly of claim 9, wherein the gasket is comprisedof an elastomeric material.
 15. The surgical shaft assembly of claim 9,wherein the gasket is fixed to the distal connector.
 16. The surgicalshaft assembly of claim 15, wherein the gasket is rotatable with thedistal connector relative to the proximal connector.
 17. A slip ringassembly for use with a surgical shaft assembly, the slip ring assemblycomprising: a slip ring; a first conductor mounted on the slip ring; acommutator rotatable relative to the slip ring; a second conductormounted on the commutator; and a flexible member disposed between theslip ring and the commutator, wherein the flexible member comprises: abody portion comprising: an inner edge defining an aperturetherethrough; and an outer edge; and flexible portions extending fromthe body portion, wherein the flexible portions protrusions are:elastically deformed against the slip ring; define an outer grooveextending about the outer edge; and define and an inner groove extendingabout the inner edge, wherein the outer groove and the inner groove areeach configured to trap water away from the first conductor and thesecond conductor.
 18. The slip ring assembly of claim 17, wherein thebody portion comprises an opening configured to receive the secondconductor.
 19. The slip ring assembly of claim 17, wherein the flexiblemember is fixed to the commutator.
 20. The slip ring assembly of claim19, wherein the flexible member is rotatable with the commutatorrelative to the slip ring.